Are YOU ready to unlock your potential in 2026? Join us for a special ‘manifestation’ episode of the podcast, as Valerie is joined by Matt Cooke, author of Beyond Wanting: The Art of True Manifestation. Matt shares his personal story into manifestation – from skeptic to believer AND how he manifested his book deal – and some key ideas you can use immediately in taking actionable steps towards achieving goals. It’s a positive blend of inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in the year ahead!
You can listen to the episode below, on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or add the podcast RSS feed manually to your favourite podcast app.
00:00 Welcome
03:25 Practical steps and skepticism
04:34 Valerie's personal connection to goal setting
07:53 Writer in residence: Matt Cooke
09:06 Understanding ‘Beyond Wanting’ and manifestation
13:35 Common manifestation mistakes
17:10 Matt’s own journey
17:50 Getting the book deal of his dreams – literally
26:01 How Matt got into manifestation
33:40 The power of gratitude for future events
34:20 The science of reality
39:23 Signs and synchronicities to look for
43:20 The numerical significance of 2026
48:18 Manifestation stories and lessons
57:07 Practical steps for the year ahead
1:03:01 Final thoughts
Links mentioned in this episode
Writer in residence: Matt Cooke
Matt Cooke is a renowned manifestation coach, speaker, and thought leader who inspires a global audience with his modern approach to spirituality. After nearly a decade in real estate, he took a transformative leap to launch a successful digital marketing business before fully dedicating himself to the art and science of manifestation. Committed to helping people create their best lives and achieve their dreams, Matt shares accessible, practical advice on social media and provides guided meditations, workshops, keynotes, online courses, and coaching. He lives with his wife, Corisande, and their son, Humphrey, in Cornwall, United Kingdom.
Follow Matt on Instagram.
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This podcast is brought to you by the Australian Writers' Centre and our course Creative Writing Stage 1.
Find out more about your host, Valerie Khoo (@valeriekhoo on Twitter and @valeriekhoo on Instagram).




